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Palacio: Inter lucky to have Sneijder back

Rodrigo Palacio has underlined the importance of Wesley Sneijder to the Inter Milan cause following the Dutchman's return to action.

Netherlands star Sneijder, who had been resting after representing his country at Euro 2012, made his first pre-season appearance for Inter in their 1-1 friendly draw against Celtic on Sunday, and Palacio is thankful for the attacking midfielder's return.

"We are very pleased that Wes is back with the team. Things are so much easier with him around. He is the brain of the team, and makes other players play better. If he plays, the others step up their game as well," Palacio was quoted as saying by Gazzetta dello Sport.

Palacio then went on to discuss his own prospects at San Siro, and is keen to flourish in his favoured role.

"With Sneijder's return, I can play in my own position again. I've never made it a secret that I feel better when I play closer to the striker, where I have a certain freedom to move, and can give more to the team."

The versatile attacker netted Inter's only goal in the draw with Celtic.